Through its digital solution, AkzoNobel is able to increase access to its technical team by offering quick and convenient communication.

Following the successful launch of the Awlgrip 3D Color Visualizer, AkzoNobel has added two further digital capabilities to its technical service offer. The new innovations include RealWear, a camera headset that will change the way applicators worldwide can access support, and Virtual Reality (VR) Spray Gun technology.

Both RealWear and the VR Spray Gun are compatible with the Awlgrip, Interlux, International and Sea Hawk brands and will help train and upskill both the current and future generations to deliver superior yacht finishes, globally.

The RealWear camera headset is a safe and hands-free visual assistant tool that connects applicators directly to the AkzoNobel team for real-time technical support. Users wearing the RealWear glasses can stream video and take pictures, allowing the AkzoNobel technical team to observe issues and offer support in real time from anywhere in the world. The software can be used via mobile and is compatible with both Apple and Google operating systems.

Through the digital solution, AkzoNobel is able to increase access to its technical team by offering quick and convenient communication, removing the applicator’s need for travel to access support and allowing them to continue their work with minimal delays. This saves the custom-er time and money, so they can get back in the water quicker.

Additionally, new VR Spray Gun equipment using cutting-edge technology will now be available to teach and refine painting techniques, without the use of any liquid paint.

The VR Spray Gun Equipment is portable, hands-free and intrinsically safe, allowing the Akzo-Nobel technical teams to transport it anywhere to help train distributor representatives, boatyard applicators, as well as an additional training tool at AkzoNobel’s Yacht Painting Appli-cation Centers (YPAC) located around the world.

Users of the VR Spray Gun Equipment can choose between conventional, pressure pot and elec-trostatic spray guns, which are all complete with air compression sounds and the real life re-sistance that is felt when pulling the spray gun trigger. The combination of spray guns and VR technology provides a lifelike feel and touch for those who are learning to paint boats or yachts, or want to refine their techniques.

Applicators are taken through the whole process of ‘virtually’ spraying an entire Awlgrip, Interlux, International or Sea Hawk system on either the top or bottom of the boat and can learn the difference between primers, topcoats and fouling controls without the need to wait for the paint to dry between coats. The process allows users to see the way they virtually painted the part, how much paint was used, the application time and the cost associated in both time and product.

Not only can the tool support team training, it can provide customers and end users with a first-hand experience of the important role that paint application and skilled professionals play in achieving high-quality results.

These two advancements follow the launch of the interactive Awlgrip 3D Visualization earlier in the year, which simplifies selecting and customizing boat colors from an extensive database, allowing boaters and professionals to view their designs on various boat types.

“The yachting industry is spread across the globe and accessing real-time technical support and on-site training can be a challenge for boatyards and applicators,” said Richard Jennings, global technical service manager at AkzoNobel’s yacht coatings. “That’s why we have invested in cutting-edge digital solutions to strengthen our support and increase access to our renowned technical team.”

RealWear will be available in late 2024.